Toshiba Encrypted USB Flash Drive Now Available for $95

Over the years, cloud storage has become a safe, reliable and convenient way to store our data. Physical means of data transfer and storage are fading away as more and more users switch to cloud.

One of the main reasons why cloud storage is gaining popularity, is security. Our images, documents, notes etc are safe from theft, fire and other mishaps.

In a time when physical storage devices are somewhat considered outdated, Toshiba has released a new flash drive. Now if it was just any flash drive, I wouldn’t be writing and you wouldn’t be reading about it right?

The drive in question is an encrypted USB, I don’t know how well it can do against fire but it sure seems to be spot-on in terms of security.

This flash drive features a mini keyboard on top which can be used to enter a 10-digit PIN. The PIN will be used to authenticate access to the flash drive’s data.

The device is available for $95 if you grab the 4GB model. However, there are other models ranging from 8GB-$120 to 16GB-$140 or you can pay $200 for the 32GB model. It’s an interesting device and so far the only problem I have with it, is that it uses USB 2.0.

For a device costing up to $200, it should come with USB 3.0. Anyways, according to Toshiba, “Once access is granted, the drive ‘unlocks’ the media, permitting clearance to all of the content stored on the drive. When the drive is removed from a USB port, the drive automatically re-locks and encrypts the stored media.”

That’s all pretty good but what if this drive is lost or stolen? Will someone else be able to easily get access to my personal files? Toshiba explains:

Should the Toshiba Encrypted USB Flash Drive become lost or stolen, it is equipped with a Brute Force Hack Defense Mechanism that will render all stored information irrecoverable after 10 consecutive unsuccessful attempts to enter the secure PIN.

The device seems to be a secure way to store data I think an average user will surely have an issue with the pricing.

Lastly, the device is not compatible with Windows Vista or the old XP which is not a surprise. Apart from these two, it’s compatible with almost every operating system out there.

Do you think Toshiba’s flash drive is worth the price? Or is it overkill? Let us know in the comments.